St. John's University Athletics
Pregame Quotes vs. Seton Hall
2/29/2008 12:00:00 AM | Men's Basketball
Feb. 29, 2008
QUEENS, N.Y. -
Director of Athletics Chris Monasch
On the announcement of Norm Roberts returning next season:
"We knew we were going to go forward. It made sense to do it now so that our players and coaching staff can focus on three games and attempt to get into the BIG EAST Tournament. Also, we have high school players making decisions as to where they are going to go and it is important for them to know that Norm is going to be their coach."
On the state of the program:
"We have eight first-year players in the program and they have all shown they can play at this level. We finally have the opportunity to move forward without feeling that we have a narrow margin for error."
Head Coach Norm Roberts
On the continued support of the administration:
"I felt support from the administration the entire way. They see what we are doing on a daily basis and how we are trying to work with the kids. No matter what, no one can put more pressure on you than you put on yourself. I want our team to be as good as we can possibly be. I want these kids to experience the BIG EAST Tournament. I want these kids to experience winning. I want them to get good grades and have success. The tough thing is to be patient for those things to happen. I believe that the people here understand what we are trying to do and how we are trying to do it and they believe in what we are doing."
On the senior class:
"Geno, Otoja, Liam and Paul, our manager are all great kids. They have all worked extremely hard in their own ways. With Liam and Otoja, you couldn't ask for two better walk-ons. Those kids work hard every day. They are on time everyday and do everything we ask them to do. They will all be successful in the future."
Senior Guard Eugene Lawrence
On head coach Norm Roberts:
"We weren't thinking about him going anywhere. That was never in our minds."
On his four years with the Red Storm:
"It went by fast and I am just happy I had a chance to play at St. John's. It was a privilege. There is still some work to do; we are still trying to get into the BIG EAST Tournament. I am happy to be a part of the all time assist leaders here. I am happy to have my name mentioned along with the great point guards that played here."
